Tenant Rights for Landlord Own Use in Netherlands

Landlord termination (own use, breach) 2 min read · published September 11, 2025
As a tenant in the Netherlands, a letter from the landlord about own use can cause a lot of uncertainty. This article explains in plain language what your rights and obligations are, how to check the notice period and which evidence to collect to strengthen your position. You will read when you can object, which bodies you can involve and which steps lead to the Rent Tribunal or the cantonal court. We also cover practical tips for communication with the landlord and how to keep track of payments and repair issues during a procedure. The text is aimed at tenants without legal jargon and helps you gain clarity step by step.

What to check

As a tenant you should first determine whether the notice meets the legal requirements. Check whether the landlord has sent a written termination letter and whether the reason 'own use' is stated concretely. The rules are in the Civil Code Book 7[1].

  • Check the date and signature on the letter.
  • Check the notice period and whether it matches your lease agreement.
  • Record all communication and keep copies.
Keep all communication with the landlord organized and stored safely.

Deadlines, objections and complaints

Pay attention to deadlines: as a tenant you often have a short period to object or to find alternative housing. If you have a dispute about rent or service charges you can involve the Rent Tribunal[2]. Also consult government.nl for practical information about housing and rights[3]. For eviction and other legal steps the cantonal court has jurisdiction.

Respond to a termination within the set deadline to protect your rights.

Collecting evidence and communication

Document why the termination seems unjustified: photos, emails, text messages and a copy of your lease agreement help. Draft a short and factual objection or response if you disagree and send it by registered mail or by email with delivery confirmation.

  • Create a chronological file with all documents and dates.
  • Request written clarification from the landlord if the reason is vague.
  • Consider legal advice if things are unclear.
Detailed documentation increases your chances in a dispute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord terminate my lease for own use?
Yes, but the termination must meet legal requirements and the landlord must make the reason plausible.
What can I do if I disagree with the termination?
You can file an objection, gather evidence and, if necessary, involve the Rent Tribunal or the cantonal court.
How quickly must I respond to a termination?
Check the notice period in the letter and respond within those deadlines to preserve your rights.

How-To

  1. Read the termination letter carefully and check the reason and date.
  2. Gather evidence, such as the lease agreement, photos and correspondence.
  3. Send a substantiated objection to the landlord and retain proof of sending.
  4. If needed, file a complaint or request with the Rent Tribunal or pursue legal steps at the cantonal court.

Help and Support

  1. [1] Wetten.nl — Civil Code Book 7
  2. [2] Huurcommissie.nl — About objections and procedures
  3. [3] Government.nl — Housing and tenant rights

Categories

Types of tenancies (fixed/indefinite, Vacancy Act, lodger) Social housing, free sector & points system (WWS) Initial rent & rent check (Rent Tribunal) Rent increases & indexation (annual caps) Service charges & utilities (settlement) Deposit (security) & payment proofs Maintenance & minor repairs (who pays what) Defects, remedies & rent reduction Energy label & performance Heat supply & district heating (Heat Act) Landlord access, viewings & works House rules, nuisance, noise & pets Co-tenancy, lodgers & cohabitation Subletting & flat-sharing Tenant termination & dissolution Landlord termination (own use, breach) Eviction & procedure Inspection, handover & keys Municipal registration (BRP) Rent allowance (eligibility & application) Discrimination & equal treatment in renting Screening, privacy & personal data (GDPR) Tourist letting & short-stay (Airbnb) Rent Tribunal & dispute resolution Templates & model letters Student & room rentals (lodger) Safety & health in the dwelling
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Netherlands

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

Related Articles